Stafford School Board proposes raises and lowest tax rate in neighboring districts

In a pivotal meeting on August 25, 2025, the Stafford City Council and the Stafford Municipal School District (SMSD) Board of Trustees unveiled a budget that promises significant financial benefits for educators while maintaining the lowest tax rate in the area. The school board president highlighted the successful efforts to secure raises for teachers and staff, emphasizing a commitment to performance-based compensation that aligns with student outcomes.

The budget includes a noteworthy $4,000 raise for teachers with three to four years of experience and an $8,000 increase for those with over five years. This initiative, made possible by recent state funding, aims to enhance teacher retention and morale. The president praised the administration and city council for their collaborative efforts in crafting a budget that not only supports educators but also provides tax relief to residents, with the tax rate set at just over 1%, a significant drop from 1.36% in 2019.

Superintendent Dr. Robert Bostick, in his final budget presentation, echoed these sentiments, celebrating the balanced budget and the legislative support that has enabled these raises. He also addressed the challenges posed by changing academic standards, underscoring the district's commitment to improving student performance amidst evolving expectations.

The meeting also touched on new legislative measures affecting school operations, including a ban on student cell phone use and requirements for displaying the Ten Commandments in classrooms. These changes reflect ongoing efforts to enhance school safety and discipline.

As the district prepares for the upcoming fiscal year, the focus remains on sustaining educational quality while ensuring financial responsibility, marking a significant step forward for Stafford's educational landscape.